Du Preez gets off 'scot-free'

Edinburgh loose forward Cornell du Preez has avoided any further punishment for foul play after being called before an independent Disciplinary Hearing in Dublin on Thursday

Edinburgh loose forward Cornell du Preez has avoided any further punishment for foul play after being called before an independent disciplinary hearing in Dublin on Thursday.

The former Kings player was cited by match citing commissioner Yves Thieffine (France) for allegedly striking Munster lock Paul O'Connell in the European Cup match at Thomond Park last Sunday, in contravention of Law 10.4(a).

Law 10.4(a): Punching or striking. A player must not strike an opponent with the fist or arm, including the elbow, shoulder, head or knee(s).

A yellow card was issued by referee Wayne Barnes for the incident during the match, and it was decided that the act of foul play committed by the player did not warrant a red card, and Du Preez is therefore free to play.

* Meanwhile, Connacht prop, Nathan White, has been suspended for three weeks following an independent disciplinary hearing in Dublin arising from the European Cup Round 6 match against Saracens last Saturday.

The former Chiefs front row forward was cited by the match citing commissioner Richard McGhee (Scotland) for allegedly stamping on the Saracens centre Brad Barritt during the first half of the game at Allianz Park in contravention of Law 10.4(b).